Operations Manager

We are seeking a highly driven and results-oriented Operations Manager to lead and oversee field operations within a growing horizontal construction organization. This individual will be responsible for managing daily operations, driving operational excellence, developing business opportunities, and ensuring the successful execution of projects while maintaining a strong focus on safety, profitability, quality, and client satisfaction. The ideal candidate is a firm but fair leader who possesses exceptional emotional intelligence, strong business acumen, and a proven ability to motivate teams while holding them accountable for performance. This role requires a strategic thinker capable of balancing operational execution with long-term growth initiatives and business development efforts. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Provide strategic and day‑to‑day leadership for multiple horizontal construction projects, including utility installation, site development, civil infrastructure, roadway construction, underground utilities, and related operations. Direct and support Project Managers, Superintendents, Foremen, and field personnel to ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and to quality standards. Develop and implement operational processes, procedures, and best practices that improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Monitor project performance metrics, labor productivity, equipment utilization, and resource allocation to maximize operational effectiveness. Ensure compliance with company policies, client requirements, regulatory standards, and safety programs. Financial & P&L Management Maintain full Profit & Loss responsibility for assigned business units, regions, or operational divisions. Develop, manage, and forecast operational budgets, labor costs, equipment expenditures, and project financial performance. Review project cost reports, job profitability, revenue forecasts, and operational KPIs to ensure financial objectives are achieved. Identify and implement cost‑control initiatives while maintaining quality and operational integrity. Drive accountability throughout the organization regarding financial performance and project execution. Business Development & Client Relations Collaborate with executive leadership to identify and pursue new business opportunities, strategic partnerships, and market expansion initiatives. Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, municipalities, utility companies, engineering firms, and industry stakeholders. Participate in proposal development, estimating reviews, contract negotiations, and client presentations. Serve as a trusted advisor to customers by ensuring exceptional project delivery and responsiveness. Support revenue growth through repeat business, customer retention, and operational excellence. Leadership & Talent Development Lead, mentor, coach, and develop high‑performing teams across field and office operations. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional development. Conduct performance evaluations, succession planning, workforce planning, and leadership development initiatives. Promote a positive workplace culture built on trust, transparency, respect, and operational excellence. Effectively manage employee relations matters with professionalism, consistency, and fairness. Safety & Risk Management Champion a safety‑first culture throughout all operations. Ensure adherence to OSHA regulations, company safety policies, environmental requirements, and client‑specific safety standards. Participate in incident investigations, corrective action planning, and risk mitigation efforts. Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing incidents and enhancing overall workplace safety. Qualifications Required Experience 7+ years of progressive experience within horizontal construction, civil construction, underground utilities, infrastructure, pipeline, site development, roadway, or related industries. Minimum of 3 years of leadership experience managing multiple crews, projects, departments, or operational business units. Demonstrated experience with P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and financial accountability. Proven track record of leading large‑scale operational teams while consistently achieving project and financial objectives. Experience supporting business development efforts and cultivating client relationships. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire, influence, and hold teams accountable. Exceptional emotional intelligence, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands‑on operational execution. Strong negotiation, conflict resolution, and decision‑making capabilities. Excellent organizational, planning, and problem‑solving skills. Comprehensive understanding of construction operations, scheduling, project controls, workforce management, and resource planning. Proficiency with construction management software, project scheduling tools, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office Suite. Leadership Profile The successful candidate is A firm but fair leader who earns respect through consistency, integrity, and accountability. Highly driven, competitive, and results‑oriented. Emotionally intelligent and capable of building strong relationships at all organizational levels. Decisive under pressure while maintaining professionalism and sound judgment. Passionate about developing people, improving operations, and growing the business. Committed to creating a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvement. Compensation & Benefits Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including performance‑based incentives, vehicle allowance, comprehensive benefits, retirement savings opportunities, paid time off, and professional development programs. #J-18808-Ljbffr